One major take away from the 2017 Energy Summit in Grand Rapids is increased optimism about Michigan’s energy future. A summit feature is recognizing the winners of the Michigan Battle of the Buildings ‘Biggest Loser’ competition—building owners and operators who achieved significant energy reduction in 2016. The competition is organized and hosted by the U.S. Green Building Council-West Michigan Chapter.

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‘Biggest Loser’ winners range from large complexes like Ford Field Stadium and the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center to smaller facilities such as the Grand Rapids Brewing Company and the headquarters of Meadowlark Design Build in Ann Arbor. What all competition contestants have in common is a strong commitment to wise energy management and use.

Greening of the Great Lakes was on hand to talk with some of the “biggest losers.”

Cheri Holman is the executive director of the U.S. Green Building Council-West Michigan Chapter. She sets the scene above.